To coincide with this week’s release of ‘Creed II’, Sylvester Stallone has taken to social media to officially retire from his most iconic role, Rocky Balboa.

Stallone, who has played the role since Rocky was released in 1976, admitted he thought the role had come to end in 2006 with ‘Rocky Balboa’ until Michael B. Jordan presented himself as Apollo Creed’s illigetimate son, Adonis.

Well, this is probably my last rodeo because what I thought happened, and has happened, I never expected. I thought Rocky was over in 2006 [Rocky Balboa]. And I was very happy with that. Then all of a sudden this young man presented himself and the whole story changed. It went on to a new generation. New problems. New adventures. And I couldn’t be happier as I step back because my story has been told, there’s a whole new world that’s going to be opening up with the audience, with this generation. Now you [pointing to Michael B. Jordan], have to carry the mantle.”

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Stallone also went on to thank the fans of the franchise with the post commenting:

Sadly all things must pass… and end. I love you Kind and generous people , and The most wonderful thing of all , is that ROCKY will never die because he lives on in you ….

Stallone is reprising his role as John Rambo in ‘Rambo: Last Blood’ which is currently in production.

We were on the red carpet for the UK premiere of Creed II last night, where we spoke to the cast of the film. Watch the interviews below.